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Brighton has been a music city for decades. The Great Escape festival brings 500 acts to 30 venues every May, but the local scene runs year-round. Concorde 2 on the seafront books the biggest independent acts. Chalk (formerly the Haunt) and the Hope & Ruin are the mid-sized rooms where bands play on the way up. Green Door Store under the station is the sweaty basement venue every city needs. And there are pub gigs everywhere, most nights, for free.

Tips for Live Music

The Great Escape

Every May, The Great Escape festival takes over Brighton's venues. 500+ emerging acts across 30 venues. Buy a wristband or catch free showcases. It's the best music festival you can walk home from.

Pub Gigs Are Free

The Prince Albert, The Hope & Ruin, and several other Brighton pubs put on free live music most nights. No ticket needed — just show up and see who's playing.

See What's On Tonight

Brighton's gig calendar moves fast — browse upcoming gigs by date, venue, and genre, and book tickets.

Live Music Venues in Brighton

40 places

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best live music venues in Brighton?

Concorde 2 (seafront, 600 cap), Brighton Dome (2,000), Chalk (400), Green Door Store (200, under station), The Hope & Ruin (pub venue), The Prince Albert (free gigs).

When is The Great Escape festival?

Mid-May each year. Three days. Wristband gives access to all venues. It's the UK's biggest new music showcase.

Is there live music every night in Brighton?

Pretty much. Multiple pubs and venues have live music most nights. Weekends are busiest but weeknights have plenty on too.

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